PRAJNAPhilosophy

Above all else we try to build with truth and honesty, and believe that beauty will come with both. All our projects are one of a kind, each with its own set of possibilities, limitations and explorations.

Prajna's sensibilities combine the ideas of beauty and perfection from the Greeks and the harmony and simplicity of the artisans of Japan.

The essence or beauty in our work comes from the design or construction phase of the work and the soul of the woods and materials we use. Prajna approaches each new project with a fresh mind and allows the process of design and construction to evolve throughout. Trained at a very design oriented school with a diverse group of teachers, we were able to explore our own paths and interests.

Since the early 80's, Prajna has been able to develop a vision and progressive voice that is unique. As our skill as craftsmen evolve, as we work with more materials, as we build relationship with other craftsmen, and as will deal with different site conditions our vision becomes stronger and clearer. What has resulted is the belief in our approach to design and construction and the importance of not only thinking with our minds but with our eyes and hands.

What is Prajna?
Prajna is an ancient Sanskrit word meaning intuition. Prajna is total, it is truth. Prajna means what is seen and the one who sees are identical, the seer is the seen and the seen is the seer. Dualism or differentiation does not take place. It is purity and to define it only serves to confine it.

Daiku, the Japanese word translated as carpenter, is composed of the characters dai (chief) and ku (artisian). The closest English equivalent is "architect," whose Greek roots are archos (chief) and tekton (carpenter). Not only etymologically but also in terms of responsibility and function, the Japanese carpenter's true Western counterpart is the architect.